1. the outer layer of skin in humans and animals
Usage: anatomy
2. the outer layer of cells covering a plant
Usage: botany

Examples

• The epidermis protects the body from infection and injury.
• Sunburn damages the epidermis of the skin.
• The plant’s epidermis helps prevent water loss.
• Dermatologists study diseases that affect the epidermis.
• The epidermis of leaves contains specialized cells called guard cells.
• Cuts that only affect the epidermis heal quickly without scarring.